Cobham Plc, a Dorset-based aerospace and defence systems developer, has acquired Argotek, a US-based information assurance company, for up to $36.2 million (£24.4 million).

Cobham Plc, a Dorset-based aerospace and defence systems developer, has acquired Argotek, a US-based information assurance company, for up to $36.2 million (£24.4 million).

The deal will expand Cobham’s security systems division. Allan Cook, Cobham chief executive, said: “The acquisition of Argotek adds further depth to our information assurance capabilities and builds on the successful acquisition of SPARTA in 2008. Argotek will strengthen our customer relationships in the growing US intelligence market, where cyber security is of critical national importance.”

Cobham reported strong growth in 2008, with revenue up 38 per cent to £1.5 billion, and an increase in pre-tax profits of 18 per cent to £244 million.

The deal is subject to approval from the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States.